Explosion of colour

Do we live in the desert? One wouldn't think so, on seeing the lovely garden which belongs to Elias Sanbar, just off the west end of the Corniche.

The magnificent display, still an explosion of colour, proves not only the maker's eye for beauty but also the hard work that went into it.

"It is quite a long process," explains Elias Sanbar. "All the annuals are grown from seed and lovingly nurtured by my wife. From the beginning of the season she is kept busy as there is always some thing to be done, whether it is thinning out the tiny seedlings, gradual transfer of growing plants to bigger pots, pruning, weeding, checking for insects or just moving plants to cooler spots under the eaves of the house when the temperature goes up. All this requires constant attention."

Asked if he too is a keen gardener, Sanbar admits it is his wife who is the real expert in the family.

"I simply enjoy the results,' he jokes.

Tier upon tier of plants, including petunias in a multitude of colours, roses, geraniums and much more, festoon the delightful patio and surround the pleasantly shaded seating area.

Complementing this blaze of colour, strategically placed ferns, palm, yucca and other greenery create interesting contrasts, proving very pleasing to the eye.

Perhaps the most pleasing aspect of the garden, from the point of view of passersby, is the cascades of blooms over the walls of the villa which people always stop to admire.

One can truly admire the efforts of the lady of the house and her love for gardening.